Chapter 3
Kale and Jack moved carefully, sneaking from tree to tree, staying hidden from the strange creatures that lurked in the shadows. Their breathing was slow, controlled, but their hearts pounded with fear. Suddenly, Jack's dog let out a low growl.
Before they could react, the dog charged at one of the creatures. A struggle followed—snarls, growls, and the sickening crunch of bones. The dog brutally killed one of them, but the others turned their glowing eyes toward it.
Jack watched in horror as the creatures swarmed his loyal companion. The dog fought fiercely but was quickly overwhelmed. Jack clenched his fists, his face twisting with rage. "I'll kill them!" he shouted, stepping forward.
Kale grabbed his arm. "If you go, you won't come back," she warned.
Jack hesitated, breathing heavily. His anger burned, but he knew she was right. With heavy hearts, they turned away, leaving the creatures behind.
They wandered deeper into the wilderness, their spirits broken. Just when they thought they were safe, they stumbled upon a small settlement. Hope flickered in their eyes—until they saw the flags. Raiders.
Before they could escape, the raiders spotted them. Armed men surrounded them, stealing everything they had—food, weapons, supplies. They left Jack and Kale with nothing but the clothes on their backs.
The two sat in silence, the weight of despair pressing down on them.
Jack sighed. "We won't survive like this."
Kale clenched her fists and stood up. "If you say you'll die, you'll die. If you say you'll survive, you'll survive."
Jack looked at her, seeing something new in her eyes—determination.
"Then let's survive," he said.
To be continued…